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Volunteer Work with Sea turtles in Costa Rica

by: Refugio Nacional Vida Silvestre Romelia

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Volunteer with us at Romelia Wildlife Refuge in Costa Rica, which protects over 230 hectares of tropical forests and beaches in the Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s blue zones. Our sea turtle conservation project runs from May to December. During this time, we conduct patrols, collect eggs, relocate them to the hatchery, and supervise the hatchery. Our research team is always in need of help—more hands mean we can conduct more frequent patrols, maintain a 24-hour surveillance system with rotating volunteers throughout the night at the hatchery and on the beach, and assist with hatchling releases to the sea. Frequent patrols, full-time hatchery surveillance, and data collection are fundamental for the success of our conservation project. Volunteers are essential to the success of artificial hatcheries. - Lodging in mixed dorms and 3 vegetarian meals daily (dietary needs accommodated). - Remote: 45-min walk to Montezuma, no cell or Wi-Fi—perfect to unplug and connect with nature and people worldwide. - Minimum stay: 5 days, 5 hours/day, rotating shifts. - Applicants: provide a CV, reference, and travel health insurance.

Program Highlights

Immerse yourself in nature on one of Costa Rica’s most secluded and stunning beaches, and make a meaningful impact in marine conservation in the Nicoya Peninsula.

Meet like-minded people from all over the world while collaborating on meaningful environmental work.

Learn to surf, practice your Spanish, and have a taste of the lifestyle in Costa Rica's blue zone, all while lending your hands to Costa Rica's conservation efforts

Witness sea turtles nest and hatchlings march to the sea at sunrise.

Enjoy being surrounded by wildlife and life by the sea.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
Starts At: $100-300
Availability
Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • Alternative Spring Break
  • Multiple Year
  • Summer
  • Winter
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • 7-12 Months
Age Requirement: 18-20, 26+
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Biological Research
  • Conservation
  • Environment
  • Wildlife
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Apr 15, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Biological Research
  • Conservation
  • Environment
  • Wildlife

Availability

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • Alternative Spring Break
  • Multiple Year
  • Summer
  • Winter
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • 7-12 Months

Age Requirement

18-20, 26+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Solo, Group

Starts At

$100-300

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Training
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living

Salary & Compensation

No Salary Compensation

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

  • Disciplinary Clearance Form
  • Resume
  • Letters of Reference
  • Written Application
  • Phone/Video Interview

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimun time I can volunteer?

We require participants to stay a minimum of 5 days. We are remote, and participants need at least one day to travel, one for adjusting and training, and one day to leave.

Can I come with my children?

We do not accept applicants 18 years or younger because of the remoteness of our station; we don't find it safe for young kids.

Do you have wifi?

No, the station does not have wifi available for volunteers; we recommend getting a cellular chip from the local companies. There is signal only on the beach.

Can I come with my wife/husband?

You can, keeping in mind that our dorm is mixed; we do not have private rooms.

Where is the closes town?

Montezuma is the closest town and is 40 minutes by foot from our station.

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